Boeing CEO Steps Down Amid Multiple Airplane Safety Issues and Fatal Crashes

Boeing is undergoing a significant leadership shakeup, with CEO Dave Calhoun announcing his departure by the end of 2024. This move comes as the aerospace giant grapples with a series of safety issues, production delays, and strained relationships with airlines.

Calhoun's exit isn't the only change at the top. Chairman Larry Kellner will not seek re-election, and Stan Deal, head of Boeing's commercial airplanes division, is retiring. Stephanie Pope, previously the company's COO, will take over Deal's position immediately.

A Legacy of Safety Concerns

The leadership changes come amidst a period of intense scrutiny for Boeing. The company has been plagued by safety issues, most notably the two fatal crashes of the 737 Max in 2018 and 2019, which claimed 346 lives.

More recently, a door plug malfunction on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max in January exposed further quality control problems. These incidents have resulted in multiple aircraft groundings, billions in losses, and damaged the company's reputation.